Clear Labs used next-generation genomic sequencing (NGS) and other third party tests to screen the samples for authenticity, major, medium, and minor substitution, contamination, gluten, toxigenic fungi and toxic plants, other allergens, and missing ingredients. They also examined the products for nutrition content accuracy, such as calories, carbs, fat, and protein.

The results of Clear Labs’ “Hamburger Report” are somewhat disturbing for both carnivores and vegetarians.

6% of meat burgers were identified as problematic with substitution, hygienic issues, and pathogenic contamination

1 sample tested positive for human DNA

3 samples tested positive for rat DNA

46% of samples contained more calories than reported on labels or in menus

49% of samples contained more carbohydrates than reported

6% of vegetarian burgers were identified as problematic with substitution, hygienic issues, and pathogenic contamination

In one black bean burger, there were no black beans

In 2 cases, meat was found in vegetarian products

Clear Labs says the purpose of the report is meant to “help the food industry future-proof their supply chains, reduce the risk of costly recalls, and generally improve qualities of safety and quality by calling out all observable trends and insights at the molecular level, regardless of whether or not they are acceptable according to FDA guidelines.”